With December just around the corner, Malaysia gets festive with its preparations for Christmas. Expect to be greeted by jolly Christmas tunes wherever you go and take a moment to be in awe of the colourful lights, decorations and festive displays in some homes and certainly most shopping malls nationwide.
Celebrated by Christians all over the world on 25th of December, Christmas is a symbolic holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, and is celebrated in December following the Pagan holiday, Winter Solstice, on the 21st of December. Many traditions that were practised in earlier times are still revered to this day by Christians.
Fun fact: The famous Christmas tree was originally introduced in Germany to symbolise eternal life.
Needless to say, Christians in Malaysia too, celebrate the occasion to its fullest. One common feature that can be noticed this season is how beautifully some residential homes are decked out in festive decorations. From extravagant lights on the exterior to fully decorated Christmas trees complete with presents snuggled beneath it, there is an unmistakable festive cheer in the air.
For Christians, it is customary to spend Christmas morning celebrating in church, where the community gathers together to pray and honour the birth of Jesus. Later at home, families spend quality time over a Christmas feast, followed by opening presents, singing Christmas carols and relishing in the significance of the holiday in good company.
If you haven’t heard, shopping malls in Malaysia also go all out when it comes to Christmas decorations. Enter any leading mall as December rolls around, and be prepared to be blown away by stunning and vibrant decorations that each mall is decked out in. Another notable feature this season are the tall and luscious Christmas trees found across different shopping destinations, which constantly blow visitors away with their colourfully-lit and towering trees. Shopping mall exteriors are also well lit with some of the most extraordinary lights that take the shape of Christmas icons such as the snowman, reindeers and many more. In addition, a symphony of Christmas tunes playing throughout sets the perfect tone for you to experience festive shopping at its best.
So as Christmas is just around the corner, don’t forget to grab your Santa hats and join in the fun and celebrations with loved ones. Alternatively, cook up a feast and share the joy of Christmas with family while you exchange presents, sing carols and make new memories along the way.
